Jair Bolsonaro, the convicted former president of Brazil, offered a startling defense for tampering with his electronic ankle monitor, claiming a drug-induced “psychotic attack” was responsible. He testified that the episode caused hallucinations, convincing him the device was secretly recording his actions.
His arrest by federal police was triggered by the monitor interference, which authorities suspected was part of a plan to flee to a foreign embassy to avoid his 27-year prison sentence for a failed coup. Bolsonaro was detained one day before his custody hearing, where he vehemently denied any intention of escaping justice.
Political analysts are treating the hallucination narrative with great cynicism, pointing out that it directly contradicts his prior claim of acting “out of curiosity.” The complex medical defense is the latest controversial moment in his legal battles.